XANTHAN GUM

What is it?

Xanthan gum is a sugar-like compound made by mixing aged (fermented) sugars with a certain kind of bacteria. It is used to make medicine.Xanthan gum is used for lowering blood sugar and total cholesterol in people with diabetes. It is also used as a laxative.Xanthan gum is sometimes used as a saliva substitute in people with dry mouth (Sjogren’s syndrome).In manufacturing, xanthan gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in foods, toothpastes, and medicines. Xanthan gum is also an ingredient in some sustained-release pills.

Xanthan gum swells in the intestine, which stimulates the digestive tract to push stool through. It also might slow the absorption of sugar from the digestive tract and work like saliva to lubricate and wet the mouth in people who don’t produce enough saliva.

Are there safety concerns?

Xanthan gum is safe when up to 15 grams per day are taken. It can cause some side effects such as intestinal gas (flatulence) and bloating.People who are exposed to xanthan gum powder might experience flu-like symptoms, nose and throat irritation, and lung problems.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of xanthan gum during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid using amounts larger than those normally found in foods.

Nausea, vomiting, appendicitis, hard stools that are difficult to expel (fecal impaction), narrowing or blockage of the intestine, or undiagnosed stomach pain: Do not use xanthan gum if you have any of these conditions. It is a bulk-forming laxative that could be harmful in these situations.

Surgery: Xanthan gum might lower blood sugar levels. There is a concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using xanthan gum at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:BY MOUTH:The World Health Organization (WHO) has set the maximum acceptable intake for xanthan gum as a food additive at 10 mg/kg per day and as a laxative at 15 grams per day. For safety and effectiveness, bulk laxatives such as xanthan gum require extra fluids.

For diabetes: a typical dose is 12 grams per day as an ingredient in muffins.

Hello, my name is Stephen. I am a family practice Physician Assistant, dad, perpetual life hacker, and a self-proclaimed Tim Ferriss four-hour-fanatic. This site is all about Tim Ferriss and putting the concepts behind his books: The Four Hour Workweek, The 4-Hour Body and the 4-Hour Chef into practice. I believe these tools can be used successfully to live a happier and healthier life. If you are new to the site here is a good place to start.